Niners O-line seeks redemption vs. Panthers

Associated PressSaturday, January 11, 2014

SANTA CLARA, Calif. — Ever since Jim Harbaugh arrived in San Francisco three years ago to build the 49ers into a consistent winner, a bruising offensive line has been the backbone of the team's offensive success.

Whether it's clearing holes for Frank Gore or giving Colin Kaepernick enough time to make big throws or scramble, the five blockers up front have dictated how the offense has played.

That's why it stood out so much when that unit was overmatched in November in a 10-9 loss to the Carolina Panthers that remains prominent in the memories of the 49ers players heading into the playoff rematch on Sunday.